DanceWell PDX Beaverton

DanceWell PDX Beaverton is part of a two-location studio founded in 1988 when Linda Springstead began teaching ballroom and social dancing through community education classes. What started as evening classes grew quickly, and in 1990 Linda turned it into a full-time business. The studio has expanded over the years and now operates from locations in Beaverton (near Aloha) and Parkrose (NE Portland). Since 2000, DanceWell has operated as an independent studio focused on making social dancing accessible and fun for everyone.

The studio teaches smooth ballroom, Latin, swing, Lindy Hop, and related partner dances at multiple levels: Beginner, Pre-Intermediate, Intermediate, and Advanced. Group classes run in monthly series beginning the first week of each month, with new series announced in advance. Classes are 45 minutes of instruction focused on patterns, technique, and styling, followed by guided practice time. No partner is required—the instructor rotates partners frequently so you dance with many people in class. Drop-in classes are available for those trying out the studio or looking for last-minute attendance.

Youth classes (middle school through young adults ages 15–20) teach the same ballroom, Latin, and swing styles in a supportive group setting, with special youth rates available. Youth dancers can also join adult group classes at the youth rate. The studio emphasizes life skills through dance: coordination, confidence, teamwork, and friendships in a welcoming, no-pressure environment.

Private lessons are available for personalized one-on-one instruction tailored to your level and goals. The studio also runs regular social dancing events and practicas where no partner is needed. Staff include Linda Springstead (owner and director, with 33 years leading ballroom dance in the Portland area), Rick Davis (dance trainer with over 10 years of training), Patti Drewry (trained in American style dances including Cha Cha, Rumba, Viennese Waltz, Tango, and others), and Gary DeLeon (social dancer trained under DVIDA for Bronze level Smooth & Rhythm, with competition experience).

The studio encourages students to repeat classes, especially at beginner levels, to build a strong foundation and refine technique. Most students spend 6–9 months or longer in beginning levels before advancing. The philosophy emphasizes the Rule of 1,000—repeating movements until they feel automatic. Classes use a 4-level progression so you always know where you stand and how to grow.

Arrive 10–15 minutes early. Classes are 45 minutes of instruction followed by guided practice, with the instructor rotating partners frequently so you dance with different people. No partner or prior experience is needed. Wear clean, comfortable clothing with freedom of movement; snug shoes with a thin, flexible sole work best. It's completely normal not to know everything—you build muscle memory, timing, and lead/follow skills step by step.

Linda Springstead is the owner and director, with 33 years of leadership in Portland ballroom dance. Rick Davis is a dance trainer with over 10 years of training and clear teaching methods. Patti Drewry has trained in American style dances and holds bronze-level certifications in Cha Cha, Rumba, Viennese Waltz, Tango, Night Club Two Step, Salsa, Bolero, and East Coast Swing. Gary DeLeon is trained under DVIDA for Bronze level Smooth & Rhythm and has competition experience.

Beginner classes require no prior experience and focus on basic steps, posture, connection, and simple patterns with the goal of feeling confident enough to get by at a dance event.